Local Government Reform
We will start on a far reaching reform of local government in Ireland which will
strengthen the strategic role and function of regional authorities in planning, transport,
water and waste management.
The authorities shall be based on areas which reflect the gateways in the National
Spatial Strategy, have democratic leadership and play a critical role in establishing
and coordinating the new planning regime.
The full implementation of these reforms will not be possible within the lifetime of
this Government, but the process of change will start with the publication of the
White Paper on Local Government Reform which will be followed by an extensive
consultation process.

Staff levels have been reduced from 37,000 to 32,000 since mid 2008. Pay has been cut. Expenses have been reduced such as the mileage allowances. Local candidates have had maximum expenditure rules for local elections introduced.

Legislation for new dublin mayor to be introduced around the end of this year.

The new planning act passed this year alters the powers of local government in respect of planning and zoning.

The funding of local government will be transformed by the introduction of water charges and property taxes. To facilitate these taxes, water meters are being rolled out and the national property price database is due to go live in the autumn.

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